Frances E. (Fran) Rutledge

Frances E (Fran) Rutledge entered into the kingdom of heaven on April 7, 2007. She was born June 23, 1908 in El Paso, IL to Peter and Coseta Ittenback. She was one of seven children. As a young woman she moved to Chicago and met her future husband, Clifford Rutledge. They were married July 1, 1933 at his parent’s home in Nashville, TN. After living in both Chicago and Nashville, they finally settled in Billings in 1960. Together they enjoyed golfing, traveling, camping, fishing and dancing; especially with close friends of whom they had many. They also shared together an enthusiastic love of cooking.

Fran was a meticulous dresser and her appearance was always flawless. She worked for years as a Revlon representative and continued her passion for Revlon long afterward. Fran also held a notable soft spot in her heart for animals, especially her dog Chichi.

Clifford preceded her in death in 1979. After that, Fran continued her active lifestyle and spent much of her time on the golf course where she managed three holes-in-one. In fact, she celebrated her 90^th birthday by playing 18 holes at the Yellowstone Country Club. She finally packed away her clubs at the age 93 after breaking her wrist. Though her golfing career ended, her lifestyle did not slow down.

Her friends affectionately referred to her as the "Energizer Bunny." She continued to occupy her time by reading, lunching with friends, and exercising. Incredibly, she stayed at her own home until three years ago when she finally moved to a retirement home. Fran also stayed active as a member of the Yellowstone Country Club and Messiah Lutheran Church. Fran Rutledge was a selfless and giving person. For nearly 99 years she made this world a better place by sharing her time and talents with others. Volunteering as a "pink lady" at Deaconess is just one of many examples. She will be sorely missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her sister Anna Wabel of Roanoke, IL, nieces Pat Charlotte and Mildred Forhan of IL, nephew Ken Witzig and his wife Nancy of Washington state, dear friend Mona Clark and the White Family as well as other friends too numerous to count.

Cremation has taken place and memorial services will be held at Messiah Lutheran Church on Tuesday April 10^th at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Messiah Lutheran Church or the charity of your choice.